Banksy

Banksy is a pseudonymous street artist, political activist, and filmmaker based in England. His true identity remains unconfirmed, sparking ongoing speculation. Active since the 1990s, Banksy is known for satirical street art and provocative epigrams that blend dark humor with graffiti, typically created using a unique stenciling technique. His works, which frequently address political and social issues, have appeared on streets, walls, and bridges worldwide.

Banksy’s art is displayed on public surfaces, including walls and self-made physical installations. Although he no longer sells photographs or reproductions of his street graffiti, his public installations are frequently resold, often by physically removing the wall on which the art was created. Most of his pieces are considered temporary art. A limited number of his works are officially and privately sold through his agency, Pest Control. His documentary Exit Through the Gift Shop premiered at the 2010 Sundance Film Festival, earning him an Academy Award nomination for Best Documentary Feature in January 2011. In 2014, Banksy was named Person of the Year at the Webby Awards.